How to Deal With “Toxic” Co-Workers

Even while working from home, you’ve probably had to navigate at least one relationship with a “toxic” coworker at some point or another. While these team members may just seem like a minor annoyance while you’re on the clock, research tells us that enjoying the people you work with is one of the best retention tools out there.

So, what to do about toxic relationships in (or out of) the office?

We think it’s important to make the distinction that people aren’t toxic in themselves, but that they may have a tendency to demonstrate toxic behavior. In our experience, leading with empathy is the best first move, no matter how challenging it may be when it comes to those who really get under our skin. This skill (amongst 4 others that we recommend for leaders in 2023) enables us to see things from others’ unique standpoints and gives us the perspective to confront issues with understanding and compassion. 

The first step to any resolution surrounding toxicity: recognition

Thankfully, the ability to recognize these “toxic” behaviors is the first step to being able to navigate the difficult situations they often create. From teammates who are overly negative or competitive, avoid doing work at all costs, or are flat-out bullies to others in the office, getting curious instead of shutting down when dealing with challenging people is something that will come in handy throughout your career and life.  After all, effective conflict management and resolution has been shown to help individuals maintain healthier and happier work environments.

Have you– or another team member– witnessed toxic behavior from a coworker?

Conflict resolution is one of the most challenging parts of working on any team. It takes a combination of empathy, patience, vulnerability, and a whole lot of courage and skillful communication to be able to facilitate it as a leader. That’s why we’re so thrilled to have seen the kind of transformations undergone by business leaders and entire organizations after leveraging what they've learned through our customized Learning Journeys.  

Our approach is a simple (but effective) one: teach leaders to be able to influence employees by navigating change and addressing difficult conversations with ease and empathy, ultimately revolutionizing the way that conflict is handled in the workplace. 

Luckily for you and your team, we have a lot to teach you in conflict resolution in our signature program Activate. It all begins with strengths-based development and building influential communication skills..